Stem Cell Therapy: Understanding the Process
Preparing for stem cell therapy
Prior to undergoing stem cell therapy, it’s essential for patients to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure they are suitable candidates for the treatment. This process typically includes a variety of diagnostic tests to assess the patient’s overall health:
- Blood Tests: These tests check for blood count, chemistry, blood type, and also screen for conditions such as hepatitis and HIV.
- Cardiac Function Testing: Procedures like an EKG or echocardiogram are performed to evaluate the heart’s ability to handle the therapy safely.
- Infection Screening: Tests to ensure no active infections exist, which could interfere with the treatment process.
- Organ Function Assessment: Additional tests are performed to evaluate the health of critical organs like the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
Doctors may also prescribe medications to address any underlying health conditions, which will help minimize risks and ensure the procedure goes smoothly.
Who can benefit from stem cell therapy?
Stem cell therapy shows promising results for treating a variety of medical conditions. Based on extensive research and professional expertise, the following conditions are considered suitable for stem cell treatment:
- Autism
- Cerebral Palsy
- CNS injuries (brain or spinal cord trauma)
- Stroke recovery
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Ataxia
- Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia
- Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
- Joint disorders (Arthritis, Arthrosis, Osteochondrosis)
- COPD
- Chronic Kidney Failure (CKF)
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Lyme Disease
- Liver Cirrhosis
- Erectile Dysfunction
Patients who have realistic expectations, a recommendation from a doctor, and commitment to post-treatment care are generally the best candidates for this therapy.
Who may not be eligible?
Although stem cell therapy offers numerous benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Certain factors can make the procedure less effective or risky. For instance, individuals with bone marrow cancer, severe blood disorders, chronic infections, or anemia may not be appropriate candidates for this therapy. Consulting with a specialist is crucial, as they can assess your medical history and determine whether stem cell treatment is the right choice.

Developing the cell product
Stem cells used in therapy can be obtained either from the patient or from a donor, depending on the patient’s medical needs. The choice between these two options is determined based on the specific condition being treated.
Donor Cells (Allogeneic): These cells are often chosen because they have a higher activity level and are easier to administer, typically requiring only one clinical visit. They are particularly beneficial when time is a critical factor or when a patient’s own cells are not usable due to health constraints.
Patient-Derived Cells (Autologous): These stem cells are harvested directly from the patient. After being purified, they are sometimes cultured for several weeks before being reintroduced into the body. This process requires two visits: one for cell collection and another for the therapy itself.
Enhancing therapy effectiveness
To enhance the benefits of stem cell therapy, it is frequently combined with other treatments that aid in recovery and provide relief from symptoms. These therapies may include IMR therapy, kinesiotherapy, manual therapy, plasmapheresis, physiotherapy, and specialized sessions with speech or occupational therapists. These additional treatments help activate the body’s natural healing processes while maintaining immune and metabolic function.

Is the procedure painful?
Stem cell therapy is generally painless, especially when proper pain management techniques are used. Local anesthesia is applied during the procedure to reduce any discomfort. Though some patients may feel mild soreness at the injection site afterward, most report minimal discomfort. In fact, many children undergoing stem cell therapy for conditions like autism report little to no pain during their treatment sessions.
Recovery and results
The recovery process after stem cell therapy is usually quick, though it can vary depending on the individual and the specific treatment procedure. Most patients schedule follow-up visits 3–6 months after treatment to monitor progress and ensure the therapy’s effectiveness.
Improvements in the patient’s condition may become noticeable within weeks or months. Common benefits include reduced pain, improved mobility, higher energy levels, and overall better health. While the initial effects of the stem cells may last 3–6 months, the long-term benefits can extend well beyond that period.